Looking for something awesome to do in Bend, Oregon this weekend? Here are our picks!

We've got a full feature about Empty Space Orchestra, Bend's own multi-genre, loud-as-hell, uber-talented, sucker-punching band of rebels in this week's Sound section. While ESO's new album has been certified by Source staffers as both the "cat's pajamas" and the "bee's knees," you should get to this show early for sets from San Francisco's gypsy rockers, Diego's Umbrella, and Portland power rock trio, The Quick & Easy Boys. $15. All ages. 8pm. Century Center, 70 SW Century Dr.

From Bottle Rocket to Junk Raft

thursday 19

The next time you toss a plastic bottle in the trash, think about this presentation by Dr. Marcus Eriksen, a scientist who recently sailed 2,600 miles across the Pacific Ocean on a 30-foot raft constructed out of 15,000 used plastic bottles in an effort to raise awareness about marine conservation. He'll talk about his experiences and the impact of garbage on our oceans at this appearance at COCC. 6pm, COCC Campus Center, 2600 NW College Way.

Last Band Standing

friday 20

The battle of the bands continues, this time featuring first-round sets from Sifted, Shades Of Society, Blue Baby's and Pine Lane. Tickets are free and available at a number of local vendors. 8pm. Century Center, 70 SW Century Dr.

Sprout Film Festival

friday 20

Back for another year is The Sprout Film Festival, a touring collection of films - both documentaries and narrative films - that showcase the work of people with developmental disabilities. If you're looking for an inspiring experience, this is where you should be on Friday. Screenings at 11:30am and 7:30pm. $6/matinee, $10/evening. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St.

Boneyard Birthday Bash

saturday 21

After they seemingly came out of nowhere to suddenly become one of the more talked-about breweries in Bend, Boneyard Beer has settled in nicely in our beer community. It's only been a year since they launched their line of delectable brews, and they're celebrating their first 365 days in existence with this big party at the Old Stone. Music is provided by Truth Hero and, of course, there will be plenty of Boneyard Beer to go around. $2 entry, $3 beers. 21-and-up. 7pm. Old Stone Church, 157 NW Franklin Ave.

Vagabond Opera

saturday 21

We could call this a concert, but it's really much more than that. This Portland-based troupe of performers is known to play a wide range of music that ranges from European cabaret to gypsy folk to Ukrainian punk-folk ballads. In all, they're known to hit on 15 different languages during any given show. But they also perform some burlesque, comedy and present an all-around fascinating night. $12/adv at bendticket.com, $15/door. 8pm. Domino Room, 51 NW Greenwood Ave.

35th Annual U.S. Bank Pole Pedal Paddle

saturday 21

In the event that you're not participating in this legendary athletic event, or know someone who is, let us fill you in on this annual Bend tradition, and one of the biggest fetes of the year. It starts at Mt. Bachelor and ends in the Old Mill and includes, skiing, kayaking, running, cycling and cross-country skiing before it's over. If you're just a spectator, you should still check this out and head down to the Les Schwab Amphitheater at 2pm for a performance by laid-back groove-rocker Franchot Tone. Les Schwab Amphitheater, 344 SW Shevlin-Hixon Dr.

Favorite Oregon Hikes and Adventures Author William Sullivan

saturday 21

Those in tune with outdoor recreation in this state have likely heard of William Sullivan, one of Oregon's top outdoor writers. At this event, he talks about his new book, Oregon Favorites, which compiles his favorite hikes and adventures from across the state, giving you plenty of ideas for this summer's outings. 2pm Saturday, May 21. East Bend Public Library, 62080 Dean Swift Rd.

The Pitchfork Revolution

saturday 21

Right when it seemed like Bend's music scene was forgoing its rootsy foundation in lieu of louder sounds comes Pitchfork Revolution, a feisty and talented group of pickers who should have the Moon moving for this three-set show. And bonus cool points to these guys for including an electric set to close the night. 21+, $7 at the door. 9pm-2am. Silver Moon Brewing Co., 24 NW Greenwood Ave.

Who Are We? Reception

saturday 21

One of the treasures of youth art education in Oregon is Caldera, a nonprofit organization with a camp in Sisters. At this show, the program reveals projects created by students, including a collaboration with the Sisters Forest Service to conceptualize an installation that would engage visitors at the Metolius Headwaters. 1:30pm-4pm. Atelier 6000, 389 SW Scalehouse Ct, Ste 120.

Eric Tollefson, Sara Jackson-Holman and Kylan Johnson

wednesday 25

Yes, local music fans, that lineup is correct. Three of our finest songwriters are indeed sharing a stage for this show. And it's free. Eric Tollefson plays his bluesy rock and perhaps even some tunes from his forthcoming new record. And piano-playing crooner Sara Jackson-Holman will tickle the ivories and dazzles you with her sultry voice. Also on the bill is Kylan Johnson, who might be fresh to the scene, but writes incredibly solid songs. Free. 7pm. McMenamins Old St. Francis School, 700 NW Bond St.

More by Source Weekly

While many of us are going to be slaving over stoves, stuffing, brining or the always fun deep-frying our butterball turkeys this Thursday, there are options for those who don't feel like sticking their hands in the cavity of a 20-pound bird or cutting up the neck to stew some gravy. For all of you who would rather have a skilled chef prepare your fixins, here's a list of restaurants serving Thanksgiving Dinner, courtesy of Visit Bend.